Monomoy’s first a royal treat

Say what you will about Rodgers and Hammerstein, but they sure created some of the theatrical world’s best musicals.

Kathleen Szmit

Andrew Sierszyn Photo

SHALL WE DANCE? – Matt Faucher (as the King) and Holly Holcomb (as Anna) take a delightful twirl around the dance floor in the Monomoy Theatre’s production of The King and I.

The King and I a heartfelt classic

Say what you will about Rodgers and Hammerstein, but they sure created some of the theatrical world’s best musicals. The King and I is no exception, and, as the opening show of the 56th season of the Monomoy Theatre in Chatham, it sets a marvelous tone for the summer.

For folks unfamiliar with the classic, The King and I tells the tale of Anna Leonowens, a British educator charged with teaching English to the many children of the King of Siam.

For Anna, a woman of high moral standards, living at the King’s palace with his many wives and unfamiliar customs is a challenge, just as it is a challenge for the King to understand headstrong Anna and her spirited determination.

In spite of their vast differences, the two find themselves drawn to one another, setting the literal and proverbial stage for drama.

Although the show is a classic, first debuting in 1951, its messages of acceptance, celebrating diversity and being open to love are timeless and beautifully brought to life by Monomoy’s immensely talented thespians.

In the title roles are Monomoy veterans Matt Faucher (the King) and Holly Holcomb (Anna). Both have appeared numerous time on the stage at 776 Main Street in Chatham, and both seem to simply get better with each turn.

Holcomb is once again dazzling and enchanting as Anna, adeptly capturing her grit, confidence and the true joy she derives from teaching. She also brings to the role her spectacular voice, which is beautifully suited to songs such as “Hello, Young Lovers,” “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance?”

Faucher is also splendid. Not only is he stunning to look at, but through his work in New York on shows such as Othello, Chekov Dreams and more, it is clear he has masterfully honed his acting skills. His transformation from nearly misogynistic to the softened and wiser King is genuine, aided by Faucher’s incomparable comedic timing and wonderful singing voice.

Along with the main story of Anna and the King is a subplot involving the princess Tuptim, who came to the King as a gift from the leader of Burma, and her secret lover, Lun Tha.

Alexis Semevolos is Tuptim, meek and resigned, yet hopeful of someday being able to live freely with Lun Tha. Though the role of Tuptim means appearing deferential, Semevolos reveals her character’s struggle through a stunning singing voice as clear as a crystal goblet.

Jason Long proves Semevolos’ perfect match in character and voice, harmonizing with her beautifully on the song, “We Kiss in a Shadow.” Long makes the typically smaller role vibrant with his portrayal of Lun Tha, no doubt leaving audiences wishing his part was bigger.

As Lady Thiang, one of the King’s many wives, Colleen Welch is fantastic, aptly conveying the fact that, although her character is one of many women betrothed to the King, she loves him still. When she sings, “Something Wonderful,” I dare you not to get goosebumps.

Because Anna teaches children, there are a fair number in the show, but the two that especially shine are John Bucy as Louis Leonowens, Anna’s son, and Wil Moser, Prince Chulalongkorn, the King’s next heir to the throne.

Both are acting veterans and both bring a special air to their respective parts, with Bucy easily portraying Louis, a young lad assimilating into a new culture, while Moser, a Barnstable resident, is phenomenal as the Prince, bringing the audience with him on his transition from petulant youth to evolving young man.

Helping to bring the show fully into its resplendence are truly gorgeous costumes, perhaps the best Monomoy has put forth, and amazing sets featuring some intricate painting.

As always the orchestra is a joy to the ears, boasting a sound much more powerful than its small size. Putting the eight-piece ensemble above the stage is ingenious and allows for excellent acoustics.

If The King and I sets the tone for Monomoy’s summer of 2013, it’s going to be a truly wonderful summer that will have everyone wanting to “Whistle a Happy Tune.”

The King and I can be seen onstage at the Monomoy Theatre in Chatham, 776 Main Street, through June 29. Tickets are $30, $25 for matinees. For information and reservations call 508-945-1589.

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